Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Alarm Clocks on Shabbat

It is permissible to set an alarm clock before Shabbat in order for it to go off on Shabbat. It is even permissible on Shabbat to pull out the button on a mechanical alarm clock that will eventually cause the alarm to go off. The reason this is permitted is because by pulling out the button one is merely removing the device that would have stopped the alarm. He is not actually setting it up. Once the alarm goes off it is permissible to cover the clock with blankets to muffle the sound so that it won't disturb others.

DSH is brought to you in memory of Rabbi Mordechai ben Daniel. Please visit us online at sephardichalacha.org